Our Staff
Jim Harper III
Lead Pastor
Jim was ordained in the Southern Baptist tradition 30 years ago. He has a Diploma in Christian Ministry from The Southern Baptist Theological, Louisville Kentucky. He has a BS in Divinity Studies from LaSalle University, Mandeville, Louisiana. He has also has engaged in graduate work at Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, California. Jim has served as Associate Pastors in Churches in Alabama, Kentucky and Hawaii. Jim most recently served 18 years at St. Stephen United Church of Christ in Louisville, Kentucky. Jim also served as Transitional Associate Conference Minister for the Indiana-Kentucky Conference of the United Church of Christ.
Anton Pierce
Associate Minister
Pastor Anton was born in Chile to missionary parents. He holds degrees from Oklahoma Baptist University and Virginia Commonwealth University. His primary role is Worship Arts.
Barry Pierce
Pianist
Barry is a native of Key West and studied music at Southeastern University of Lakeland, Florida.
Tony Contino
Organist
Dr. Anthony Contino is a native of Chicago. He is a retired dentist and professor at Florida Southwestern College. Previously he served as Music Director and organist at Saint Isabel Catholic Church on Sanibel Island. Currently, he is the President of the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers.
Tracy Wagaman
Office Manager
Tracy was born and raised in Wilmington Delaware. She graduated from Goldey Beacom Business College in 1985 with an Associate’s Degree in Office Administration and has held positions in accounting, bookkeeping, administrative management and controller. Tracy and her husband Dennis moved to Florida in 2015 when Dennis purchased a Home Inspection Business. Tracy has been a part of TAECC’s staff since October 2017.